Gloria R. Combe

Gloria Ruby Combe, 85, peacefully passed away at home on May 6, 2023. Gloria was joyfully brought into the world on August 15, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan to Lyman and Ruby Parsons. She graduated from Western High School and went on to graduate from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts. Gloria started her career as an administrative assistant at Penn Central Railroad and moved up the ranks to later become the Director of Governmental Affairs for CN Railroad.

Known fondly as “Nina” to her grandchildren, she was loving, quick-witted, brilliant, and devoted to her family. She was a fervent supporter of human rights and animal welfare. She was passionate about politics, social justice, and education. In her retirement, Gloria traveled to exotic locales and enjoyed many hobbies, including playing cards, reading, exercising, spending time with her family, and watching “Jeopardy.”

Gloria is survived by her two daughters Tricia (Chris) Combe-McDonald and Lynda (Dennis) Wawrzynski; grandchildren Joanna, Cassie, Alivia, Collin, and Megan; great-grandchildren Paige, Lance, Amelia, Dylan, Cooper; and great-great grandchild Miles.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 14th from 4:00–8:00pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home (37000 W. Six Mile Road, Livonia, MI 48152). A funeral will be held on Monday, May 15th at 11:00am at First United Methodist Church in Northville (777 8 Mile Road, Northville, MI 48167) with a celebration of life luncheon to follow immediately after the services. Donations can be made to the Michigan Humane Society in Gloria’s name.